RENAULT TRUCKS’ ‘TEAM THUNDERFALLS’ SADDLES UP FOR CYCLE ZAMBIA

Renault Trucks has announced that its ‘Team Thunderfalls’ will be saddling up for Transaid’s ‘Cycle Zambia’ challenge from 23rd-30th September.

The quartet, comprising of Tony Owen, (Transport Solutions Manager), Aniko Meszaros (Service Programmes Co-ordinator), Jared Davies (Commercial Aftersales and Retail Business Co-ordinator) and Nigel Base (SMMT’s Commercial Vehicle Manager) will take on the gruelling 490 kilometre (300 mile) cycle ride across Zambia, hoping to raise over £20,000 for Transaid in the process.

Team Thunderfalls’ Captain Tony Owen explains why they are getting involved: “We are delighted to take part and raise money for such a fantastic organisation as Transaid, helping with their mission to solve transport challenges in economically developing countries.”

Tony continues: “It’s also a great opportunity to really sample and explore a country that I wouldn’t have considered visiting and, riding as a group, getting to spend time with people with a common interest, but from different demographics including Company Owners, Transport Managers and Traffic Commissioners.”

Two members of Team Thunderfalls are no strangers to the Transaid cycling challenges - last year Tony took part in South Africa and in 2014 Jared Davies was in Madagascar.

 “Last year was tough, with hot sun, rain and strong winds most days and Jared had a great experience, despite the bikes being rather basic !” says Tony.

The 2018 ride from Lusaka to the Victoria Falls will see the keen cyclists take on some challenging terrain including dirt tracks and undulating ground as well as open bush and then finishing at the breath-taking Victoria Falls.

“We’ve already had a bit of a team setback as Jared recently broke his shoulder during training! However he is determined to be fit and well by the time we travel to Zambia.  Aniko is a newcomer to cycling, but is focused on her training and really enjoying it. Perhaps one of our biggest challenges will be the tracks with long sections of sand, which is a pig to cycle through!” notes Tony.

Commenting on exceeding their target of £20,000, Tony explains: “Our dealer network has generously donated the majority of our sponsorship to date and for this we are extremely grateful. We are now focusing our last fundraising push with colleagues, friends and family. All donations, large and small will be much appreciated.”